The Irish Government has affirmed its support for Larry Murrin to remain as Chair of Bord Bia, despite calls for his removal from farming groups and opposition parties.
Government Stands Firm Amid Conflict of Interest Claims
The decision comes after it emerged last week that Mr Murrin’s company, Dawn Farms, utilized Brazilian beef in its meat products. Farming organizations – including the IFA, ICSA, and ICMSA – contend this creates a conflict of interest, given Bord Bia’s mandate to promote Irish food. They argue Mr. Murrin’s position is now untenable.
Tánaiste Simon Harris defended the Government’s position in the Dáil, stating they would not yield to what he characterized as a pursuit of “a head on a plate.” He asserted that Mr. Murrin had received majority backing from the Bord Bia board after answering questions regarding the matter.
Protests and Political Pressure
The decision has sparked significant protest. Approximately 15 tractors converged on Leinster House this afternoon, having begun their demonstration at the Bord Bia offices on Pembroke Road and passing the Department of Agriculture. Members of the IFA have been protesting outside Bord Bia’s offices in Dublin for four consecutive days.
Sinn Féin has been a vocal critic, bringing the issue to the Dáil and announcing plans to present a motion next week demanding Mr. Murrin’s removal. Party leader Mary Lou McDonald stated confidence in Bord Bia has been undermined. Matt Carthy argued that Bord Bia’s effectiveness relies on trust, which he believes has been lost among primary producers.
Mr. Murrin, in an interview with the Irish Farmers Journal, stated his intention to continue in his role, dismissing the calls for his resignation as “emotional nonsense.” This prompted a strong response from IFA Deputy President Alice Doyle, who accused Mr. Murrin of showing “total contempt” for farmers and their families.
Next Steps
Bord Bia CEO Jim O’Toole and Mr. Murrin are scheduled to appear before the Oireachtas Agriculture Committee next week. It is possible that further scrutiny of the situation will occur during this session. The IFA has indicated its members will continue their protest until Mr. Murrin is removed. Sinn Féin’s motion to the Government could also lead to further debate and a potential vote on the matter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bord Bia’s role?
Bord Bia is the Irish Food Board, responsible for promoting Irish food and drink both domestically and internationally.
What is the conflict of interest alleged against Larry Murrin?
The conflict of interest stems from the fact that Mr. Murrin’s company, Dawn Farms, uses some Brazilian beef in its products, while Bord Bia promotes Irish food.
What has been the Government’s response to calls for Mr. Murrin’s removal?
The Government, including the Tánaiste and Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon, has given Mr. Murrin its full backing and maintains he has done nothing wrong.
As this situation unfolds, will the Government’s position shift in response to continued pressure from farming groups and the opposition?
